Stoke City manager Mark Hughes has said that he believes he played a part in Chelsea's evolution to the football superpower they are today.

The ex-forward joined Chelsea from Manchester United in 1995 and scored 39 goals in over 100 appearances for the club.

He won the 1997 FA Cup with the Blued, as well as the League Cup and UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1998.

Speaking ahead of Stoke's Premier League clash with Chelsea this weekend, the Potters' boss revealed his pride at playing for the Blues.

"I had three really good years there, at the start of the modern day times for them," he said.

"They were beginning to become one of the big teams in the country then.

"I joined with Ruud Gullit and then (Gianluca) Vialli and (Gianfranco) Zola came in too.

"I would like to think I played a small part in the beginnings of the journey they have been on.

"I've not won there as manager but I always enjoy going back to Stamford Bridge - it was a good place for me and I have many good memories."